What we're actually comparing.

A short, practical guide to the seven things we put under the microscope when we review a UK-licensed online casino. The same list is used for every operator, in the same order, so the reviews are genuinely comparable.

1. UK Gambling Commission licence

We start by checking the operator's entry on the UK Gambling Commission public register. We confirm the operating company name, the account-number listed and that the licence covers casino activity. If an operator only holds a remote betting licence we say so plainly.

2. Sign-up and affordability checks

UK rules require operators to make affordability and identity checks at the right time, not after deposits have piled up. We sign up with a clean UK profile and note exactly what was asked, in what order, and how long it took.

3. Bonus terms in plain English

We read the bonus terms before we accept any welcome offer. The numbers that matter are wagering multiplier, eligible games and weighting, maximum bet while wagering, and the time you have to clear it. We flag terms that are out of step with the market.

4. Game and studio range

We look at how many distinct studios are present, whether the live casino covers basic table types around the clock, and whether the operator has any meaningful exclusive content. We also check the search and filter tools, which is where many lobbies fall apart.

5. Payments and withdrawals

We deposit using a UK debit card and at least one alternative method, then make a withdrawal back to the same source once we've played. We record minimum and maximum amounts, fees, and the time from withdrawal request to funds arriving after KYC clears.

6. Mobile and accessibility

The mobile build is tested on a real mid-range Android handset, not a flagship and not a desktop emulator. We check keyboard navigation, focus states and contrast on the most important journeys.

7. Safer-gambling tools

Every UK-licensed operator must offer deposit limits, reality checks, time-outs and a route to GAMSTOP. We count how many taps it takes to reach each from the account home, and whether the tools are surfaced before the first deposit or buried in a help centre.

The detailed scoring weights for each of the categories above are explained in our editorial review policy.